Some people like impressionism, with the works of such as Monet being dear to their heart; others like photographs, with the clearer the image portrayed, the more realistic it is to them; such is the genealogical choice: one, an overwhelming sense of what was the case (judged against the social norms of the times – marriages within kinship groups), against the need of “proof”, unfortunately, in most cases, not extant. The result is often a doldrum, with those wishing for “proof” forever stuck in becalmed waters, circled by an albatross.

The following notes are a blend of fact and impression, nothing more, nothing less. They concern the families of John and Nicholas George of Virginia, and associated families – those of Bennett and Harris, and, based on a strong impression, Egerton.

It was put so brilliantly and plainly by Louise F. Wilcox, when she wrote about the Monger family (as follows), which “lived close to, associated with, and probably married into” … a succinct summary of the English kinship system. There are few people wh can genuinely claim descent from a specific settler of ancient times, but a strong sense can be gained of descent from his or her general family. When it is difficult to identify the specific, settle for the general, wisely. Always follow a cast-iron “principle of assciation” of the English kinship system: In what way were a family of (a) Nicholson associated with a family of (b) Grey?, and they with a family of (c) Eggerton?; and they with a family of (d) Hardy; and they with a family of (e) Harris? Perhaps simple, but hidden by obscurity, and sunk beneath the hand-me-down, and too easily accepted, accounts of old; (b, c, and d were already connected).

In as much as some Harris of Virginia were of Somerset origin, they were also of Dorset kin, of the adjoining county, where Bristol sea-faring families, such as the Pitts and Sewards conducted trade.

GEORGE

1. … George.
1.1. John George, m. Jane … gave his age as 50 in a 1653 deposition. His Will of 1678 (D.B. 2, p. 170), named his friends, James Powell and Thomas Taberer, as executors. John George may have been he bapt. Nov. 6, 1603, in Pilton, Somerset, a manor of the Abbots of Glastonbury (son of John George and Mary Kynman, m. Jan. 27, 1603), tenants, likewise, being the Harris of Glastonbury and Wiveliscombe. John and Nicholas George of IOW sold their headrights to Capt. Francis Potts, who obtained a patent of 1,000 ac. on Jan 24, 1653, in Northampton Co. for the transportation of 20 persons among whom were John and Nicholas George.

Thomas Taberer was the father-in-law of John Newman, husband of Ruth Taberer, and John Newman was the future br.-in-law of Thomas Harris, d. 1672, who m. (2), Alice, dau. of John Newman Sr.

1.1.1. Rebecca George, m. (1) Thomas Lewis, and witnessed the probate of his estate on Oct. 24, 1670. She m. (2) Phillip Pardoe, d. by April 6, 1678. Rebecca George was mentioned in the Will of Col. John Lear, of Nansemond, who had m. her step-mother, Ann. Col. John Lear (by Mary Oldis) was the father of (1) Thomas Lear, d. bef. Nov. 21, 1695, who m. (2) Elizabeth, dau. of Joseph Bridger Jr., having issue, Martha, who m. Thomas Goodwin, of Nansemond. (2) Martha, d. Aug. 4, 1704, in Fairfield, Glouc. Co., who m. (2) Maj. Lewis Burwell, of “Carter’s Creek”.

1. Maj. Lewis Burwell, m. (1) Abigail Smith.
1.1. Nathaniel Burwell (b. 1680), m. Elizabeth, dau. of Robert Carter of Corotoman.
1.1.1. Carter Burwell, m. Lucy, dau. of John Grymes.
1. Maj. Lewis Burwell, m. (2) Martha Lear.
1.1. Lewis Burwell (1698 – Sept. 7, 1743, m. Elizabeth, dau. of William Armistead, and Anna, dau. of Hancock Lee, of Ditchley.
1.1.1. Ann Burwell, m. John Mooring, whose ist wife, Elizabeth Ellis, was the relict of Samuel Lancaster*, d. Feb. 11, 1745.

1.1.1.1. Joyce Lewis, m. Phillip Brantley Sr., son of Edward Brantley Sr., security for the estate of Thomas Harris, d. 1672.
1.1.1.1.1. Edward Brantley*.
1.1.1.1.1.1. John Brantley, m. the relict of Thomas Harris, d. 1629/30. Thomas Harris, 290 acs., IOW Co; N. side of Maherin Riv., & on both sides of Herbert’s Br; adj. *Edward Brantley and William Simmons’ line. March 24, 1725, p. 440.
1.1.1.2. John Lewis, named Rebecca George as his mother in his Will, dated Oct. 1, 1692.

1.1.2. Isaac George.
1.1.2.1. Robert George, m. Sarah (Elmore) Elliott, in 1687, in Christ’s Church Parish, Middlesex Co.
1.1.2.1.1. Elizabeth George (1698-1765), m. (2) Robert Williamson* (1695-1764).
1.1.2.1.2. John George (1704-1784), m. Mary, dau. of Joshua Jordan, b. June 30, 1681 in Chuckatuck, son of Thomas Jordan Jr. and Margaret Brasseur. and br. of Robert Jordan who m. (1) Christian, dau. of Thomas Taberer.

1. Thomas Jordan Sr. m. Lucy (Corker) Rose. She m. (2) William Rose Jr., brother of (1) Jane Rose, who m. (1) Richard Avery; who departed from Bristol, in 1665. Passenger and Immigration Lists Index, vol. 1, p. 56: Capt. Anthony Fulgham, 1600 ac. IOW, July 12, 1665, for transportation of 30 people, inc. Richd. Avery.
1.1. Thomas Jordan Jr., m. Margaret Brasseur.
1.1.1. Joshua Jordan.
1.1.1.1. Mary Jordan, m. John George.
1.1.2. Mathew Jordan, b. Jan. 1, 1676, in Chuckatuck, d. Sept. 2, 1747, appraised the estate of John Harris, son of Thomas Harris, d. 1672, and Eleanor George.

1.2. Nicholas George. He, Thomas Taberer, and Humhrey Clarke were granted 900 ac., on Aug. 14, 1652. Beg. at the mouth on N. side of a branch where Francis England’s land endeth, cross the branch to the great swamp, being the first branch of the black water”, p. 52. His Will was Rec. June 1 1661, and granted to his son, Nicholas, land adjoining John Edwards*. Wit. John Sharpe (who m. a sister of Thomas Harris, d. 1672), and Henry Davis. Nicholas George and John Grymsditch, 300 acs. Isle of Wight Co., Feb. 20, 1638, p. 633. Runing up Pagan Cr, & E. & W. at the head of Grymsditch his Cr. 200 acs. to sd. George by assignmt. from William Clapham, to whom it was due for trans. of 4 pers., John Munger, Rich. Shelton, Anthony Lee, John Evans, & 100 acs. due sd. Grymsditch for the per. adv. of himself & wife. C&P, p. 105.

MONGER

John Monger lived in Lawne’s Creek parish before moving to Lancaster Co., where he was granted land next to John and Thomas Carter (on July 29, 1650), on the Corotomon River. John Monger claimed the headright’s of Charles Barcroft, George Moore, and Edward Dale, whose dau., Katherine, m. Thomas Carter, of “Barford”. (See previous notes).

“The John Munger Sr. family lived close to, associated with, and probably married into the families of: Person, Taberer, Smelly (Smiley), Kea, Boucher, Watkin, Harris, Joyner, Spencer, Jordan, Pittman, Fern, Gray, Exum, Dunkley, Grizzard, Kimball and others. Members of same of these families, such as the Harrises and Jordans, moved fram Isle of Wight County into North Carolina and settled close to the Mongers in Warren and Granville Counties.

Robert Monger Jr., grandson of John Munger Sr., received a land grant for 300 ac. an the S. side of Kerbey Creek, which is N. of the Meharrin River in 1745. This Robert Monger Jr. was the father of Joseph Monger and Amy Monger, who m. Sampson Pittman … Henry Mounger, son of Joseph, m. Elizabeth (Betty) Harris, dau. of Henry Harris on Jan. 8, 1767 in Southampton Co. Jethro Monger was the security for this marriage. In 1773, Henry Mounger and his wife went to Anson Co., N.C. In 1779, he made a land entry in Montgomery Co. In 1783. he moved his family to Wilkes Co., Georgia”. (Louise F. Wilcox, Mounger/Monger and Allied Families, 1991).

Elizabeth Harris was the sister of Arthur Harris, b. July 20, 1758, in Southampton Co., who m. Frances Ledbetter, granddau. of Henry Ledbetter and Edith Williamson. Henry Harris was the son of Edward Harris Jr. (son of Edward Harris Sr. and Mary Turner, son of Thomas Harris, d. 1688), and Mary Thorpe. Henry Monger was the br. of Sampson Monger, who m. Sarah, dau. of Daniel Harris (son of Edward Harris and Mary Turner), and Jane Jordan, and sister of Sterling Harris, Jordan Harris, Drury Harris, Daniel Harris, Mary NIcholson, Tabitha Harris, Britain Harris, and Edward Harris.

Daniel Harris m. Jane Jordan (sister of George Jordan Sr., whose Will was witnessed by Robert and Lemander Harris), having issue: Jordan Harris. Francis Riggan enters Seven hundred & fifthy ac. beginning at Thomas Bell’s corner on little Creek thence along sd. Bell’s line to another corner thence along same line to Gedion Pegrams line thence along the sd. line to George Pegram’s line, thence along the said line to Edward Pegram’s line, thence along sd. line to Robert Harris’s line, thence along sd. line to Thomas Williams’ line, thence along his line to Jordan Harris’s line, thence along sd. line to Jno. Faulcon’s line, thence along sd. line to Edward Hollimon’s line, thence along sd. line to his corner from thence along William Ceelby’s line (the land he bought of Mary Thornton to the beginning of Francis Riggan’s. (Bute Co., March 16, 1778).

Daniel Boucher (of Bristol); estate inventory was conducted by Mr. Robert Flake. Daniel Boucher’s Will was recorded May 1, 1668, mentioning (1) “Hodges Councill the younger” (of Wemore, Somerset); (2) Elizabeth Munger, the dau. of John Munger (Thomas Harris, d. 1672, was security, with John Munger, for the estate of Samuel Griffin); (3) Elizabeth Davis the dau. of John Davis, decd (Edward Harris, d. 1677, owed him money); (4) friend John Hardy, probable br. of George Hardy, f-in-l of Edward Harris, d. 1677; (5) friend Thomas Taberer, who m. (1) Ann Bennett, probable sister of Richard Bennett, d. 1709, second-cousin of Thomas Harris, d. 1672. His daus., Ruth Taberer, m. John Newman, br.-in-law of Thomas Harris, d. 1672 (the Newman family were of Wedmore); Ann Taberer, m., as his first wife, Robert Spencer, “loving friend” of Thomas Harris, d. 1672.

NICHOLSON AND HARRIS

1. …
1.1. James Nicholson, m. Elizabeth Grey*.
1.1.1. Elizabeth Nicholson, m. John Egerton.
1.1.1.1. Rachel Egerton, m. Charles Harris.
1.1.2. Benjamin Nicholson. Account of sales of estate of Daniel Harris, dec’d., Jane (Jordan) Harris, Admrx., dated May 28, 1765, mentions Benjamin Nicholson.
1.1.2.1. James Nicholson, witnessed a 1765 deed from Samuel Nicholson to Benjamin Egerton and James Egerton. Jas. Nicholson do enter 640 ac. lying in Bute County on the waters of Stone House Creek and Hubb Quarters Creek on both sides of Eaton Road and Halifax Road beg’n. Edw. Hollomond’s line, thence by Kellie’s line, thence by Wm. Durhams’s line, thence by Jos. Shearings line thence by Dan. Sledge’s line, thence by sd. Nicholson’s line thence by Newitt Harris’s line &c including the survey to the begining and including one improvement made by said Nicolson. (Bue Co., March 16, 1778).
1.1.2.2. Mary Nicholson, m. Edmund Harris, son of Robert Harris, son of Robert Harris, Will probated on April 28, 1740.
1.1.3. James Nicholson, had land adj. Robert Harris, son of Robert Harris, Will probated on April 28, 1740.
1.3.1.1. James Nicholson, m. Ann, dau. of James Davis and Elizabeth, dau. of Thomas Warren.
1.3.1.1.1. Nathaniel Nicholson, m. Mary Harris, dau. of Daniel Harris and Jane Jordan.
1.3.1.1.1.1. Brittain Nicholson, m. Mary, dau. of Michael Harris, son of Robert Harris, d. 1740.
1.2. Ann Nicholson, m. Colonel Richard Blunt. “There is in Surry a deed, dated 1724, from Richard Blunt, of Surry, to his sister, Ann, wife of Edmund Irby, of Prince George, conveying
510 ac. on Blackwater (where said Richard lives), which was patented by Thomas Blunt in 1701. The Will of Richard Blunt was proved in Surry, on June 16, 1747: Legatees – son, Richard, the land I live on, 800 ac., and also a new survey adjoining … to Mr. Nicholas Edmunds, all of testator’s lands on the south side of the Great Creek, providing he gives testator’s son, John, the like quantity adjoining testator’s lands on the north side; sons, John and Benjamin, daughter, Mary Irby, daughters, Elizabeth and Lucy Blunt, John Irby, cousin, William Blunt, wife, Ann”. (‘Godwin Family’).

The Benefice of Eggardon and Colmers covers the four rural parishes of Askerswell, Loders, Powerstock and Symondsbury.

George Hardy, d. 1655, patented 500 ac. in Lawne’s Creek, next to Alice Bennett, in 1648. His Will mentioned his kinsman, George Hardy, and his next kinsman, Thomas Hardy. (Mr. Boddie, p. 226).

HARDY OF LITTON CHENEY AND TOLLER, DORSET (Toller Porcorum is ca, 6 miles N. of Litton Cheney an 4 miles N. of Askersewel).

1. Edmond Hardy, b. ca. 1510, of Toller, m. (1) Jane, dau. of John Keat, of Chesselburn, Dorset.
1.1. Edmond Hardy, b. ca. 1540, of Toller, m. Joan, dau. of William Cooke, of Lye, Dorset.
1.1.1. Edmond Hardy, b. ca. 1570, of Wolcombe Maltravers, m. Frances, dau. of … Knight of st. Dennis, Southampton
1.1.1.1. Robert Hardy, b. ca. 1602.
1.1.1.2. John Hardy, b. 1604 (19 in 1623).
1.1.1.3. George Hardy, b. ca. 1606.
1.1.2. William Hardy, b. ca. 1570, m. Catherine, dau. of Richard Giles, vicar of Stockwood. (8 miles S. of Toller Porcorum).
1.1.2.1. John Hardy, b. ca. 1593, m. Joan Selby, Nov. 23, 1615, in Litton Cheney.
1.1.2.2. George Hardy, b. ca. 1595, m. Elizabeth Vye, May 13, 1618, in Litton Cheney
1.1.2.3. Mary Hardy, m. Andrew Mynson, May 18, 1620, in Litton Cheney. Avis Mynson, m. Edmund Grey, August 26, 1613, in Askerswell.
1.1.2.4. Thomas Hardy.

GREY OF ASKERSWELL, DORSET (This is not the ‘amalgamated’ Grey lineage associated with a much prized ‘ancient planter’ status).

1. John Grey of Askerswell, Esq., eldest son and heir to Robert, mar. Jane, da. to … Ronyon of Berkcombe, co. Som’set, Gent
1.1. Walter, his eldest son Walter Grey m. Thomazine, dau. of Roger Cheverell, son of John Cheverell, Esq., of East Stoke, Dorset, and Margaret Wykes. (His Inq. was 5 & 6 Phil & Mary, E 150/945/17).
1.1.1. Walter Grey (Dr.), of Bridport, d. 1612, m. Ann, dau. of Robert Williams, of Harrington.
1.1.1.1. Walter Grey, m. Mary, dau. of John Bonville, of Clopton in Belgrano, Somerset, ca. 7 miles from Bristol.
1.1.1.1.1. Walter Grey, b. 1622.
1.1.1.1.2. Mary Grey, m. Christopher Holman, of Virginia, d. 1691. Mary Bonville, as Mary Grey, made her Will on Dec. 9, 1663, in IOW, which was proved on the 28th of that month. She appointed Anthony Mathews as admin. of her estate for the use of her son, “Walter Grey, of ye county of Dorset”. Security Christopher Holliman. Anthony Mathews held land adj. Thomas Tooke and George Moore, the grandfather of Avis White, wife of a grandson of Thomas Harris, d. 1688.
1.1.1.1.3. Thomas Grey, bapt. 1625.
1.1.1.1.3.1. Thomas Grey, b. ca. 1650.
1.1.1.1.3.1.1. *Elizabeth Grey, m. James Nicholson.
1.1.1.1.3.1.1.1. Elizabeth Nicholson, m. John Egerton.
1.1.1.2. Edmund Grey, m. (August 26, 1613) Avis Mynsum.

HOLMAN

1. Robert Holman, m. Alice Stebins, Jan. 24, 1568/9, in Whitchurch
1.1. Joan Holman, m. Nicholas Mynson, Sept. 10, 1605, in Whitchurch.
1.2. Robert Holman, m. Elizabeth Miller, Sept. 7, 1607, in Whitchurch.
1.2.1. Christopher Holman, of Virginia, b. ca. 1630, m. Mary Grey, niece of Avis Mynsum.
1.2.1.1. Ann Holman, m. John Atkinson, son of Thomas Atkinson Jr. (half-br. of William Gwaltney), who m. Sussanah, a dau. of George Moore’s sister); br. of James Atkinson, whose son, Thomas Atkinson witnessed the Wills of:
(1) Edward Harris, rec. March 25, 1734, p. 301, which included a bequest to his dau. “Martha Williamson”.
(2) Thomas Hollyman, rec. March 25, 1734, p. 395.
(3) James Atkinson, rec. Dec. 23, 1723, p. 146.
(4) Thomas Harris: Leg. son Joshua, dau. Mary; to my unborn child. Excs, wife Hannah and brother, Henry Harris. Dated Dec. 25, 1729, rec. March 23, 1730.
(See as follows).

EGGERDON/EGGERTON OF ASKERWELL, DORSET, AND SOMERSET, AND VIRGINIA (it is suggested). Eggerton is a hamlet in Litton Cheney parish, Dorset; 4¼ miles E.N.E of Bridport, and the site of an ancient Roman camp.

I. Thomas Eggerdon, Vis. of 1623, b. ca. 1490, d. bef. 1544.
1.1. Thomas Eggerdon, b. ca. 1520, m. Margaret Watkins, of Halwaye, Dorset, in 1544. He was bur. Dec. 27, 1561, at Askerswell
1.1.1. Richard Eggerdon, b. 1546, per i.p.m of father, m. Avice, dau. of Hugh Browne of Loders. He was bur. June 8, 1639.
1.1.1.1. Henry Eggerdon, m. Margaret Hardie, of Askerswell.
1.1.1.1.1. Thomas Egerdon, bapt. Oct. 14, 1593, m. Elizabeth …
1.1.1.1.1.1. Simon Egerdon, bapt. Sept. 13, 1636, m. Mary Hodder, at Chilcombe, on Nov. 9, 1659.
1.1.1.1.2. John Egerdon, bapt. Mar. 10, 1595, m. Joan Smith, on Aug. 20, 1621, at Askerswell. Browne v Eggerdon. Plaintiffs: Jervase Browne. Defendants: John Eggerdon. Subject: money matters, Somerset. 1643. (C 5/594/181). John Egerdon, gent of Whatley, Somerset, Gent. Will proved June 6, 1668. My kinsman John Eggerdon. A dwelling house in Murdercombe, Whatley. Lands in Batcombe, Somerset. Elizabeth, eldest daughter of my son Richard, & Mary, his youngest daughter. Lands in Dorset to my son Richard Eggerdon, Exor. My kinsman Simon Eggerdon, Overseer. Tucker v Egerden. Plaintiffs: William Tucker. Defendants: John Egerdon and others. Place or subject: property in Charlton Mackrell, Somerset etc. 1663. (C 7/347/128). Gardner v Tucker. Plaintiffs: Henry Gardner and Katherine Gardner his wife and John Barrett. Defendants: William Tucker, Anne Fry, widow and John Eggerton. Subject: marriage contract, Somerset. 1652. (C 8/100/82). Eggerdon v Gill. Plaintiffs: John Eggerdon. Defendants: Margaret Gill widow and Robert Gill. Subject: money matters, Dorset. 1648. (C 5/8/71). Feoffment by William Collins the younger of Yeovilton, yeoman and Anne his wife to John Eggerdon of Whatley, gent, of a messuage in Barwick, March 21, 1660/61. (SHC DD/HN/2/4/2).
1.1.1.1.2.1. John Egerdon, d.v.p., bapt. March 3, 1621-2, m. Elizabeth Gillam, Feb. 27, 1640, at Loders.
1.1.1.1.2.2. Thomas Egerdon, d.v.p., bapt. July 22, 1627.
1.1.1.1.2.3. Richard Egerdon.
1.1.1.2. Thomas Egerdon, bapt. July 23, 1587.
1.1.1.3. John Egerdon, bapt. April 5, 1591, m. (2) Amy …
Will of sept. 10, 1664, bequests:
(1) To Amy, his wife, his dwelling house in Bridport for 40 years
(2) To Richard Eggerdon, his son, the dwelling house in Bridport on the death of Amy Eggerdon for 51 years.
(3) To John Eggerdon, his grandson, the fee simple of the dwelling house in Bridport on the death of Amy and Richard Eggerdon or the expiry of the terms in (1) and (2).
(4) To his son Thomas Eggerdon, one shilling.
(5] To his son John Eggerdon, one shilling.
(6) To his son Henry Eggerdon, one shilling. (D/BTM/I2/1). He has basically disinherited three of his sons.
1.1.3.1. Richard Eggerdon, b. Jan. 11, 1624/5.
1.1.3.1.1. John Eggerdon, b. ca. 1655. (His d.o.b. could reasonably be extended to 1665, which would place him more in the range of John Egerton, b. ca. 1700*, as follows.

There was clearly several families of closely associated Nicholsons which occupied the same area.

1.3.1.1.1. *John Egerton, b. ca. 1700, m. Elizabeth Nicholson, on Nov. 27, 1726. He sold 370 ac. on the S. side of the Roanoke River on Stonehouse Creek to James Nicholson of Surry Co. Wit. Daniel Pegram, p. 28.
1.3.1.1.1.1. James Egerton, m. Martha … Her Will, Warren Co. B. 2 p. 37, rec. Nov. 1811: Ex: sons John, Gilbert, and Wilmot. Wit. George Nicholson.
1.3.1.1.1.1.1. John Judkins Egerton, b. Feb. 9, 1769, m. Nancy, dau, of Charles Harris (br. of Robert Harris Jr.) and Rachel Egerton, on Aug. 21 1798. He witnessed the Will of Joseph Harris, dated Feb. 1797.
1.3.1.1.1.2. Rachel Egerton d. after Sept. 8, 1819 in Warren Co., m. Charles Harris.
1.3.1.1.1.2.1. Nancy Harris, m. John Judkins Egerton.
1.3.1.1.1.2.2. Bedford Harris, m. Priscilla Lancaster on Dec. 5, 1811 (N.C. Marriages B. 1, p. 30).
1.3.1.1.1.3. Wilmot Egerton m. (1) Ann …
1.3.1.1.1.3.1. Sarah Egerton, m. Irby Harris, on Jan. 30, 1804.

GEORGE continued :

1.2.1. Eleanor George (d.v.p.), m. Thomas Harris, d. 1672.
1.2.1.1. Thomas Harris, d. 1712, whose br., John*, was second-cousin of Joyce Lewis, grandmother of John Brantley.
1.2.1.1.1. Thomas Harris, most probably, d. 1729/30, whose widow m. the said John Brantley.

1.2.2. Nicholas George, d. March 9, 1699, in Lancaster Co.
1.2.2.1. William George, m. Elizabeth Carter on June 15, 1698, in Lancaster Co., dau. of Thomas Carter, of “Barford” and Eleanor Cooke, who m. (2) William Grove, son of “John Grove, merchant, of Bristoll”, who purchased 700 ac. “easterly by Chippoaks Creek” on Jan. 12, 1656, atty John Jennings, p. 97. John George makes William Sherwood atty for the estate of John Grove, deceased, April 22, 1671, p. 383. John George was the uncle of Eleanor George, the ist wife of Thomas Harris, d. 1672. The estate of Elinor Groves was appraised by *John Harris, son of Thomas Harris, d. 1672.

1.2.2.2. Nicholas George. L.C, B. 11, pp. 198-200. Rec. Feb. 14, 1721. Conveyance of 200 ac. by Nicholas George to William Mitchell. Land originally granted to William Thatcher and Robert Parfit by patent Feb. 26, 1653, then passed to Nicholas George, grandfather of the above Nicholas George who deeded it to daughter Grace George in his last will of May 8, 1661, now descended to the current Nicholas George as sole and only heir (Grace not having male issue) of the senior Nicholas George

1.2.3. Grace George, m. (1) John Arnold, aft. 1661, in Lancaster Co. (2) “Thomas Sampson & Grace Arnold (wid.); bef. Nov. 12, 1690, who was dec’d by March 11, 1701/02, was a dau. of Nicholas George Sr. and the wid. of John Arnold who died in Lancaster Co. in early 1684”. (L.C. Deed Book, p. 308).

1.2.3.1. Margaret Sampson. “The marke of Margaret Sampson the daughter of Thomas Sampson is as the marke of John Williamson* his cattle & hoggs is as followeth a swallow forke on the right care & a halfe spade on the left eare”. (B. 6, ii., 336). *Perhaps br. of Dr. Robert Williamson, father of Ann Williamson, who m. John Boykin.

1.2.4. Sarah George, m. Richard Marshall, son of Thomas Marshall*. Rappa, B. 1, pp. 151-152: “Know all men that we Richard Bennet and Mary Benet of Nansamin do hereby acknowledge to have sold all our right that we our selves or heirs have in a parcel of Land called Keinmore in Rapphanock being … thousand acres as by the pattent and assignment therreof may appear the said land being sould some years past unto Richard Loe, Rice Jones & some others … 22 day of January 1660 in presence of Edw. Carter, Richard Bennet, Richard Marshall, Mary Bennett.

1.2.5. John George. Rec. 19 Apr. 1693. Devisees: John Richard, John Brown, of Northumberland, Wm. Abby, Richard Abby, Thomas Sampson, exor, Landlady, Margaret Mitchell, Wm. Mitchell & wife Margaret. Wits: John Sampson, Anne Arnold.

BRIDGER

1. Joseph Bridger (April 29, 1631 – April 15, 1686).
1.1. Joseph Bridger Jr. (1656-1713).
1.1.1. Elizabeth Bridger, m. Thomas Lear, son of Col. John Lear (W&M, p. 309), ‘stepfather’ of Rebecca George
1.2. Hester Bridger, m. George Williamson.
1.3. William Bridger, with John Scott, as follows, witnessed a deed whereby John and Thomas Harris of the Upper Parish, sons of Thomas, d. 1672, divided the land they held in jointure, that being 250 ac. inherited from their father, and 115 ac. they had acquired from Joseph Bridger Sr.

WILLIAMSON

To be expanded on hereinafter:

1. Robert Williamson, m. Joan Allen, who m. (3) Rueben Proctor, who appraised the estates of the said John and Thomas Harris, the former by Eleanor George.
1.1. Robert Williamson.
1.1.1. Robert Williamson (1695-1764), m. Elizabeth George.
1.2. Francis Williamson, Will proven Aug. 22, 1743.
1.2.1. Arthur Williamson*.
1.2.2. Joseph Williamson*.
1.2.2.1. Burwell Williamson.*
1.3. George Williamson. Will rec. May 28, 1722.
1.4. Ann Williamson, m. John Boykin.
1.4.1. Ann Boykin? m. Robert Harris Jr.; or he m. a Ann Boykin, dau. of John Boykin’s br., Edward. Edward Boykin sold to Robert Harris Jr. of IOW about 50 ac, on S. of Blackwater, and bounded on east side by Berbeckew branch, line between Robert Harris Jr. and part of patent of 325 ac. granted to he said Boykin, Aug. 1731. Robert Harris later sold 125 ac. (including 50 from Boykin) to *Burwell Williamson. His wife, Ann Harris, released dower rights to that sale. “Robert Harris and wife Ann of North Carolina to Burwell Williamson of Southampton Co.”. Deed of Bargain & Sale, proved Oct. 11, 1759: “125 acres adj. John Harris”. (D.B.2, 1753-1760, pp. 289-290).

LANCASTER

1. Robert Lancaster Sr., bapt. Jan. 26, 1634, in Bruton, Somerset, the son of “Robert Langcaster”, who m. Susannah Penny, on Oct. 1, 1632, m. (ca. 1660) Lettis … (2) Sarah widow of her 2nd husband, Richard Bennett Sr., second-cousin of Thomas Harris, d. 1672.
1.1. Samuel Lancaster, b. ca. 1663, m. Elizabeth Harris.
1.2. Robert Lancaster, Jr.
1.2.1. William Lancaster, m. Mary Moreland.
1.2.1.1. Lawrence Lancaster, m. Mary Williams. He sold to Len Henley Bullock, 330 ac. on Fishing Creek, Elbe’s Branch, “where I now live adj. West Harris“. (Bute (Warren) Co., NC. Book A, p. 77. R. Jan. 23, 1765). The last will and testament of Lawrence Lancaster was proved in open Court by the oath of James Harris, and Lawrence Lancaster Jr. (Aug. 28, 1792, ibid., p. 230).
1.2.1.1.1. Moses Lancaster (d. 1793), m. Martha Harris, d 1797, dau. of Joseph Harris, br. of (1) Robert Harris Jr.*, d. 1772/3, who lived on the S. of the main Blackwater Swamp, next to the lands of *Arthur and *Joseph Williamson. (2) Ann Harris, d. 1839, who m. Francis Riggan, b. March 7, 1764 in Bute, NC.
1.2.2. *Samuel Lancaster, d. Feb. 11, 1745.

HARRIS, once again:

1. William Harris, b. ca. 1535, m. Dorothy Westbrooke, on Aug. 31, 1562, in Wiveliscombe.
1.1. William Harris,
1.1.1. Richard Harris, bapt. Jan. 28, 1595,
1.1.1.1. John Harris, bapt. Feb. 18, 1624.
1.1.1.1.1. Elizabeth Harris, m. Samuel Lancaster, son of *Robert Lancaster Sr.

1.1.1.2. Thomas Harris, ca. 1630-1688, held land in lower par. IOW Co. on borders of Blackwater to the bottom of Pig Neck (B. 7, p. 510), which had been granted to Mr. John Seward on April 16, 1648, who had patented land in 1638 “upon Warresquioke River”, against the land of Nathaniell Floyd, whose widow m. Francis Hobbs, whose dau. m. John Harris, son of Thomas Harris, d. 1672. Nathaniel Floyd’s headright was Mathew Tomlin; his land being adj. that of Thomas Harris, d. 1688: B. 7, p. 299: Mathew Tomlin, 1227 acs., Low. Par. of IOW Co., on brs. of the Blackwater, Apr. 27, 1686.
1.1.1.2.1. Robert Harris Sr., d. 1740. On April 20, 1715, he aquired 150 ac. from his br. Edward Harris, on the south side of the main Blackwater Swamp, beginning at the fork of Warrick Branch.
1.1.1.2.1.1. *Robert Harris Jr.
1.1.1.2.1.1.1. Newitt Harris, d. Feb. 1811, in Warren, NC.
1.1.1.2.1.1.2. Burwell Harris.
1.1.1.2.1.1.3. Edmund Harris, m. Mary Nicholson, aforementioned.
1.1.1.2.1.1.3.1. Irby Harris, m. Sally, dau. of Wilmot Egerton, on Jan. 30, 1804.
1.1.1.2.1.1.3.2. Henry Harris, m. his first cousin, Lucretia, dau. of Ann Harris and Francis Riggan, on Dec. 12, 1819.
1.1.1.2.1.2. John Harris, m. a granddau. of George Moore.

1.1.2. Robert Harris, m. Mary Crumpe, cousin of Richard Crump, b. 1628, sheriff of Bristol, merchant.
1.1.2.1. Martha Harris, m. John Jennings, of Bristol, merchant. His Will, rec. March 10, 1679, mentions daus. Martha and Mary, son John. Overseer, George Moore.
1.1.2.1.1. John Jennings, m. Mary Hill, dau. of Sylvester Bennett (dau. of Edward Bennett), and Nicholas Hill.

1.2. Richard Harris, m. (1594) Elianor Bennett, in Wiveliscombe, Somerset, sister of Edward Bennett, the Virginia coloniser,
1.2.1. Edward Harris, held land patented by his cousin, (Governor) Richard Bennett, on Nov. 4, 1642. This was adj. land held by Wm. Newsome, April 6, 1653, p. 51.
1.2.1.1. Edward Harris, d. 1677. The estate accounts of Edward Harris Jr. inc. “100. Payd Coll. Bacon for rent”, land bought from Thomas Harris, d. 1672, Edward’s second-cousin. Edward Harris was a son-in-law of George Hardy, whose wife, Mary Jackson, was a great-granddau. of *Edward Bennett. George Hardy’s land bounded that of Nicholas Hill, who m. a dau. of the said Edward Bennett.
1.2.1.1.1. Edward Harris, b. 1664.

1.2.2. Thomas Harris, m. Judith Blake, on Nov. 20, 1623, in Wivelscombe.
1.2.2.1. Thomas Harris, b. ca. 1625, d. 1672, in Virginia. He was a business partner of Joseph Bridger and John Scott, in Bristol. (Bristol Record Office, Depositions)
1.2.2.1.1. Thomas Harris, b. ca. 1655, d. 1712, would have been of full age when he and his half-br., John, bought land from Joseph Bridger (in 1679) that had been that of their father. Consequently, it would be rational to assume had a 1st wife before marrying Judith Edwards, after 1701. John Scott* (grandson of namesake, aforementioned), witnessed a deed of March 26, 1711 (with William Bridger, son of Joseph Bridger Sr.), whereby John and Thomas Harris of the Upper Parish, sons of Thomas, d. 1672, divided the land they held in jointure, that being 250 ac. inherited from their father, and 115 ac. they had acquired from Joseph Bridger.
1.2.3.1.1.1. Thomas Harris, b. ca. 1685; Will dated Dec. 25, 1729, rec. March 23, 1730. He witnessed the Will of *John Scott (R. July 28, 1729), son of William Scott*.

1. Thomas Taberer.
1.1. Christian Taberer, m. Robert Jordan.
1.1.1. Christian Jordan, m. *William Scott.
1.1.1.1. *John Scott.
1.2. Ruth Taberer, m. John Newman, whose sister, Alice, was the second wife of Thomas Harris, d. 1672, and mother of Thomas Harris, d. 1712.

WILLIAMSON, expanded:

1. Gov. Daniel Tucker.
1.1. Alice Tucker, m. (1) Arthur Allen, (2) John Hardy, who, by his ist wife was father-in-law of Hodges Counsell and Bridgman Joyner, guardian of an orphan of Thomas Harris, d. 1688.
1.1.1. Joan Allen, m. Dr. Robert Williamson, whose Will was proved May 2, 1670, B. 2, p. 85: Robert Williamson, Doctor in Physic. To be buried as near as maybe to my late deceased father-in-law, Mr. Arthur Allen. Leg.- wife Jone, son Robert land at Blackwater; sons George, Arthur, and Francis. Friends Major Nicholas Hill and Capt. John Grove ex. Mr. Robert Burnett married the relict of Williamson gave bond to the court for 100.00 tobo & cash, to fulfill & see performed Williamsons will the second day of November 1672. His Securitie is Mr. Driver & Mr. Arthur Allen. Deed of Joseph Bridger, Esq., for certain land (left by Dr. Robert Williamson to Joan, his wife, for life, and then to his eldest son Robert, which lands were found to escheat and were then granted in 1678 to said Bridger) to said Joan, now the wife of Mr. Robert Burnett, Aug. 8, 1683. Joan Allen (Williamson/Burnett) m. thirdly Rueben Proctor. Arthur Allen Jr. names in his 1710 Will his sister, Joan Proctor. Arthur and Joan Allen were siblings of Katherine Allen, who m. Robert Johnson; their dau, Priscilla, m. John Counsell, son of Hodges Counsell. Appraisal of estate of Robert Williamson, rec. Dec. 9, 1672 at the house of Mr. Robert Burnett; divided between the relict and four orphans, by Robert Kae, Arthur Smith, Richard Sharpe, br.-in-law of Thomas Harris, d. 1672), and Robert Flake. (The Williamsons were strongly connected to the family of Thomas Harris, d. 1672).
1.1.1.1. Robert Williamson, b. July 8, 1667.
1.1.1.1.1. Robert Williamson (1695-1764), m. Elizabeth George.

1.1.1.2. Francis Williamson, will proven Aug. 22, 1743, Isle Of Wight. Wife: Ann, sons Arthur, Joseph*, Benjamin; dau. Martha Atkinson; grandsons: Burwell, Joseph, Hardy, Absolom, Benjamin, and James Williamson. Wit. James Simmons, and Thomas Williamson. Ann Burnett, of the Upper parish, leg. cousin Joseph Williamson. Ex. br. Francis Williamson. Wit. William Dixon, Elizabeth Brantley. Rec. April 28, 1729, p. 154. Joseph Williamson was the father of Burwell Williamson, who was sold land by Robert Harris Jr., as follows.

1.1.1.3. George Williamson. Will rec. May 28, 1722: Son: George, son Thomas and dau. Hester, the plantation on which Mr. Reuben Proctor lives, being lands escheated by Col. Joseph Bridger and so made over to my mother and brother, Robert Williamson, by the said Col. Bridger; sons John and Robert, my tract of land on the Blackwater. Wit. Francis Williamson, p. 118. John Fulgham. Leg. – sons John, Anthony, and Michael, wife Ann. D. June 7, 1701. Wit. George and Francis Williamson, p. 553. Anthony Fulgham, Will rec. Jan. 25, 1730/1, appraised by Francis Williamson, Joshua Turner, p. 242. John Turner: Will d. 1705, appraised by John Fulgham, Francis Williamson, and Edward Boykin Sr.

Reuben Proctor appraised the estates of John and Thomas Harris, sons of Thomas Harris, d. 1672; the former being a son of his ist wife, Eleanor George.

1.1.1.4. Ann Williamson, m. John Boykin, son of Edward Boykin, Sr.

MOORE AND FLAKE

1. George Moore, d. Aug. 11, 1643; m. Magdalena …
1.1. George Moore, of Bristol, b. 1632, m. Jane Barcroft, dau. of Charles Barcroft.
1.1.1. Ann Moore, m. Thomas White.
1.1.1.1. Avis White, m. John Harris, grandson of Thomas Harris, d. 1688, whose (probable) brother, Robert Harris, may have m. Ann Boykin.
1.1.2. Eleanor Moore, m. Richard Piland, the son of James Piland, bapt. on Aug. 30, 1604, in St Mary’s Le Porte, Bristol, headright of Francis England, in 1642.
1.1.2.1. James Piland, witnessed the will of Robert Lancaster, on April 28, 1720, and appraised the estate of John Brantley, on April 26, 1725.
1.1.2.1.1. James Piland, m. Elizabeth Brantley, dau. of Phillip Brantley (son of Edward Brantley Sr.), and Joyce Lewis; dau. of Rebecca George (dau. of John) and Thomas Lewis.
1.1.3. Magdalen Moore. George Moore, in consideration of marriage betw. Thomas Carter and Magdalen, dau. of said George Moore, gives Thomas Carter 400 ac. out of my dividend of 1400 ac. on Blackwater Swamp, patent to Moore, May 12, 1669.
1.2. Katherine Moore, b. ca. 1630.
1.2.1. Katherine (b. ca. 1650) m. (2) Robert Flake (b. ca. 1640). Robert Flake and Richard Bennett (d. 1709) were overseers of the estate of Edward Browne. Security: Thomas Atkinson, Jr.* and John Clarke Rec. March 2, 1669, p. 23.
1.2.1.1. Robert Flake (b. ca. 1665), m. Margaret, dau. of Mathias Marriott and Alice Warren (b. 1645, by deposition), dau. of Thomas Warren (Will probated April 21, 1670), and his ist wife, Jane …
1.2.2. Sussanah, m. *Thomas Atkinson, Jr.

Chronology suggests the following interpretation:

1. …
1.1. Robert Flake (b. ca. 1640) m. a dau. of George Moore’s sister.
1.2. Alice Flake (b. ca. 1645), m. William Gwaltney, b. ca. 1640, whose Will was probated March 2, 1732, p. 257. He gave his “Grandson Edward Boykin one cow”.

William Gwaltney was the half-br. of Thomas Atkinson, Jr., (who m. Sussanah, a dau. of George Moore’s sister), and James Atkinson: Leg. Son Thomas*, son Timothy, son James, dau. Sara Ingram. Ex. Timothy and Thomas Atkinson. Rec. Sept. 24, 1739.

*Thomas Atkinson witnessed the Will of:

(1) Edward Harris, rec. March 25, 1734, p. 301, which included a bequest to his dau. “Martha Williamson”.
(2) Thomas Hollyman, rec. March 25, 1734, p. 395.
(3) James Atkinson, rec. Dec. 23, 1723, p. 146.
(4) Thomas Harris: Leg. son Joshua, dau. Mary; to my unborn child. Excs, wife Hannah and brother, Henry Harris. Dated Dec. 25, 1729, rec. March 23, 1730.

Thomas Atkinson, estate appraised by Robert Tynes, James Simmons, and Richard Thomas. S. Joseph Atkinson, son. Rec. Jan. 28, 1744, p. 524. On Dec. 7, 1758, Mary Harris of Newport Parish, Isle of Wight Co. deeds all her interest in some land to Robert Tynes, of the same parish and county … Robert Edwards who died intestate leaving three daughters to whom the said land descended, one of which said daughters intermarried with Thomas Harris and departed this life leaving issue, Benjamin Harris her son and heir at law, who also departed this life leaving issue the said Mary Harris, party of these presents, his daughter and heir who inherited one third part of this land.” (D.B. 10, pp. 31-32). Wit. Joseph Bridger IV. (great-grandson of Joseph Bridger I., business partner of Thomas Harris, d. 1672). One third devised to Frances Edwards, half-sister of Judith Edwards, 2nd wife of Thomas Harris, d. 1712, who m. Henry Wyche, the br. of George Wyche, whose dau., Elizabeth, m. Theophilus Goodwin; their dau., Sarah, being the wife of Thomas Harris, son of Thomas Harris, d. 1729/30, and nephew of Henry Harris.

1.2.1. Ann Gwaltney (b. ca. 1665), m. Edward Boykin Sr. (b. ca. 1655), Will probated by son, John Boykin, May 27, 1728, p. 98. “I give unto my loving son John Boykin the plantation whereon I now live and all land thereto belonging being five hundred and thirty acres, to my said son and his heirs forever.I give unto my loving wife, Ann Boykin, all the rest of my estate, goods an chattels during her natural life and at her death it is my wish that it be equally divided among all of my children and lastly I do appoint my loving wife, Ann Boykin and my son, John Boykin my whole and sole executors of this my last will and testament.” (Boddie, ii. 103). On July 3, 1678, Nicholas Cobb sold Thomas Tooke land adjacent to James Manning and Edward Boykin. Arthur Allen sold him 525 ac. on Blackwater, Aug. 9, 1692.
1.2.1.1. Edward Boykin Jr*. (b. ca 1676).
1.2.1.1.1. Ann Boykin?, may have m. Robert Harris Jr. IOW. D.B. 5, p. 252: To repeat: *”Edward Boykin sold to Robert Harris Jr. of IOW about 50 ac, on S. of Blackwater, and bounded on east side by Berbeckew branch, line between Robert Harris Jr. and part of patent of 325 ac. granted to he said Boykin, Aug. 1731. Robert Harris later sold 125 ac. (including 50 from Boykin) to Burwell Williamson. His wife, Ann Harris, released dower rights to that sale. Again, to repeat, Robert Harris Jr. may have m.a dau. of John Boykin and Ann Williamson:
1.2.1.2. John Boykin, m. Ann Williamson. He d. bef. his father, or soon after, intestate, as an inventory of his estate was appraised by Francis Williamson, John Dunkley and Edward Harris, recorded Feb. 23, 1729, p. 255. Edward Harris was either Edward Harris Sr. (d. bef. March 25, 1734), uncle of Robert Harris Jr., or Edward Harris Jr. (d. 1740), cousin of Robert Harris Jr. Edward Boykin Sr.’s estate account was returned by Edward Boykin Jr. – “In pursuance of an order of the Court, dated Feb. 22, 1730-31, having stated and settled all debts and credits relating to the estate of Edward Boykin, deceased and amended all errors in the account of Edward Boykin, Jr., administrator of the estate of Edward Boykin, deceased; as aforesaid I’ve found the balance to be eighten pounds nine shillings and eight pence due legatee. Errors accepted”. Signed Francis Williamson and John Dunkley, auditors, p. 98.

WIDER EDWARDS CONNECTION

1. …
1.1. Robert Edwards, m. Mary, sister of Michael Hunt, soapmaker, of Bristol.
1.1.1. Sarah Edwards, m. John Sampson, perhaps related to Thomas Sampson. who m. Grace George, cousin of Thomas Harris, d. 1712.
1.1.1.1. Katherine Sampson, m. John Lanier II.
1.1.1.1.1. Sampson Lanier Sr., m. of Elizabeth, dau. of Richard Washington and Elizabeth, dau. of Arthur Jordan II, and sister of George Jordan II, whose dau., Jane, m. Daniel Harris, aforementioned.
1.1.1.1.1.1. Sampson Lanier Jr., m. Elizabeth Chamberlain
1.1.1.1.1.1.1. Rebecca Lanier, m. Walton Harris, son of Nathan Harris, son of Edward Harris and Mary Turner, aforementioned.

1.1.2. Robert Edwards,
1.1.2.1. Judith Edwards, m. Thomas Harris, almost certainly as 2nd wife.

1.1.3. Thomas Edwards, m. (1) Elizabeth, dau. of William Newitt, (2) the widow of James Piland Sr. (whose son, Richard, as given, m. Eleanor Moore, aunt of Avis White, who m. John Harris, grandson of Thomas Harris, d. 1688).
1.1.3.1. Mr. Thomas Edwards, m. (1) a dau. (Mary, Sarah, or Anne) of Michael Hunt, in whose Will, probated June 12, 1684, he is designated as “cousin”, and overseer. Thomas Edwards was a business partner of John Clarke in Bristol. (Bristol Arch., ref. 046, 1684). (2) The widow of Thomas White.
1.1.3.2. Mr. William Edwards (“William Edwards, Bristol merchant, destination Virginia”), granted granted 290 ac. in Lower Par. of Surry Co., on heads of Blackwater branches … adj. Mr. Richard Bennett (April 23, 1688, p. 214), second-cousin of Thomas Harris, d. 1672. Mr. William Edwards, granted 410 ac., in Lower Par. of Surry Co., on E. of Greene’s Swamp, on Oct. 20, 1691, p. 204. Granted John Clarke, April 24, 1684, by him deserted. William Edwards claimed the headrights of Richard Holloman, and Thomas Harris (d. 1712), son of Thomas Harris, d. 1672.

1.2. *John Edwards*. “Whereas Susan Carter, daughter of Will. Carter, deced., was by order of this Cort., putt unto John Edwards till she should attaine her age of one & twentie yeres. & by the sde. Edwards assigned unto *Thos. Marshall, & by the sde. Marshall assigned unto Richd. Merryman. It is ordered by this Cort., that the sde. Susan doe continue with: the sde. Richd. Merryman till she attaine to the age of 21 yeres, accordinge to the tenor of the order granted to Edwards”.

The last Will &Testament of Thomas Roots, probated March 14, 1660, pp. 386/7.
First, I give & bequeath unto Mr. Thomas Marshall one man Servt. named Will. Stephens, one gun, etc.
Secondly, I give & bequeath unto my Godson, Thos. Roten, one mayd Servt, named Anne Searne & two yearling heifer, etc.
Thirdly, I give do bequeath unto Samuel Tucker one broad ax, one adz, etc.
Forthy, I give & bequeath unto (sister) Eliz. Robinson two cows, etc.
Fiftly I give & bequeath unto my sister, Ann White, my wifes wearing clothes, etc.
Sixtly I give & bequeath unto my Godson, Thos. Edwards, Son of John Edwards, Chirurgeon, one Cow, etc.
Seventhly & Lastly, it is my wil & desire that my lov: friend John Edwards, Chirurgeon, shall be my ful & whole Exr. Wit. John Flower, Nicholas George.
Lancaster County Court, March 11, 1662/63, p. 218. Coission of Administracon accordinge to Acte is granted unto Elizabeth (Nichols) Edwards, Widd:, the Relict of John Edwards, deced., the sd. John Edwards dyeing Intestate. John Nichols Securitie, John Sharpe & Henry Davis appointed to apprize the sd. estate & to bee sworne by the next Coissioner.

Thomas Roots m. Frances Attwell, dau. of Margaret Grimes and Thomas Attwell*.

Margaret … m. (1) Thomas Attwell*, (2) Edward Grimes, (3) … White. *Howell. On Aug. 18, 1627 Lieut. Gilbert Peppet patented 250 ac. on the S. side of Warwick River parting it from the land of Captain Samuel Matthews now in the tenure of Thomas Attowell (or Howell) and Nathaniell Floyd. On Nov. 20, 1637, Nathaniell Floyd patented 850 ac. in IOW Co., claiming the headright of, among others, Richard Carter. (Nugent, ii.). John and Thomas Harris, 365 ac. Upper Parish of Isle of Wight County; on north side of the Ashen Swamp, near the head and on west side of Seaward’s Creek, April 20, 1685. p. 441. 250 ac. part granted Nathaniel Floyd, Nov. 20, 1637, and conveyed to said Harris’ father, by Captain Francis Hobbs and his wife, who was the relict and administratrix of said Floyd, Jan. 13, 1659; and among other lands found to escheate; granted to Honorable Colonel Joseph Bridger July 22, 1678, who sold to said John and Thomas Harris the 6 Feb. following (1679), to be equally divided according to their father’s will, dated last day of March 1672. 115 ac. being waste land; and the whole beginning by a marsh near the head of Seaward’s Creek; near Colonel Bacon. (ibid.).

John Harris of the Upper Parish to Thomas Harris of the same, 365 ac. (being land they owned jointly by patent dated April 20, 1685) on Seaward’s Creek. For brotherly love, they wish to divide this tract which consists of 250 ac. taken up by their father and 115 ac. which they, John and Thomas Harris, took up. Land adjoins Dry Bridge Branch and the north part is to go to John Harris and the south part is to go to Thomas Harris. Thomas Davis and wife now rent part of the land in the southern part. Witness: William Bridger and John Scott. Signed John Harris, Thomas Harris. Rec. March 26, 1711, p. 181.

Harris, Thomas: Appraisal by R. Proctor, John Harrison, Philip Wheadon, James Wilson. Signed: Judith Harris (second wife), March 23, 1712/1713. Thomas Harris inherited 183 ac. from his father (half of the 365 ac. held in jointure by his father) and took out a land patent for 150 ac.

Harris, John of the Upper Parish: Legacy – Daughters Alice; Elizabeth; Isabel; land given me by Hugh Campbell of Cureweak; Lawrence Brown when he is free; wife Mary; daughters Susanna, Anne; Mary; Martha. Wife Executrix. Overseers, Mathew Jordan and John Scott. Rec. May 25, 1713. Witness: Judith Harris, William Story, Matthew Jordan. Harris, John. Appraisal by Reuben Proctor, William Balmer, Elias Hodges and Roger Hodges. S. Elizabeth (daughter) Harris. Aug. 8, 1713.

They were all ‘interconnected’, but a main sense of associations is discernable, but not by “proof”. Grasp the sense when that is lacking, and perhaps in some future time find the proof  that validates the sense.

by m stanhope, copyright B.T. Shannon, 2022